Playa Santa Fe
A serene public beach near Tulum ruins, known for its crystal-clear waters, fine sand, and abundant marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene ambiance, fewer people
Playa Santa Fe
Best Time
Serene ambiance, fewer people
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene public beach near Tulum ruins, known for its crystal-clear waters, fine sand, and abundant marine life.
"The sand is soo fine that it almost does not stick to your feet. The water is Cristal clear."
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive early for free parking on the side of the road.
☀️ Bring Your Own Shade
Limited shade available, so pack an umbrella or tent for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal-Clear Waters
Immaculate turquoise waters perfect for swimming and spotting marine life.

Soft, Fine Sand
Remarkably fine sand that barely sticks to your feet, making for a comfortable beach day.

Views of Tulum Ruins
Enjoy the unique perspective of the ancient Tulum ruins visible from the shoreline.

Marine Life Encounters
Abundant sea creatures like stingrays, schools of fish, and turtles are often spotted.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Playa Santa Fe
Tulum's Natural Reservoir Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive early for free parking on the side of the road.
☀️ Bring Your Own Shade
Limited shade available, so pack an umbrella or tent for comfort.
💧 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Fewer vendors than other beaches; come prepared with your own refreshments.
🐠 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The clear water is perfect for spotting stingrays, fish, and turtles.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive early for free parking on the side of the road.
☀️ Bring Your Own Shade
Limited shade available, so pack an umbrella or tent for comfort.
💧 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Fewer vendors than other beaches; come prepared with your own refreshments.
🐠 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The clear water is perfect for spotting stingrays, fish, and turtles.
💰 Nature Reservoir Tax
Expect to pay a tax for accessing this protected natural area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Santa Fe is praised for its stunningly clear, calm waters and incredibly fine sand, offering a more tranquil beach experience near the Tulum ruins. While amenities are limited, its natural beauty and opportunities to see marine life make it a highly recommended spot for relaxation and nature appreciation.
"Playa Santa Fe in Tulum offers a laid-back and picturesque beach experience. Located near the Tulum ruins, this beach features crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, perfect for relaxation or a refreshing swim. Its calm waves make it family-friendly, and there are local vendors offering snacks and drinks. With fewer crowds compared to nearby beaches, it's ideal for those seeking tranquility. Arrive early to enjoy the serene morning ambiance at this charming coastal gem."
Md.Nishanto Nahid Pishon
"Public beach in the nature reservoir, you have to pay the tax, but not the fee for the ruins.
The sand and water is amazing - similar to the entire coast.
Less bars/restaurants - mostly clubs. Overall, great place to enjoy beach time"
Hafid H
"Beautiful beach. Sand is soo fine that it almost does not stick to your feet. The water is Cristal clear and even by the corals you can see the details of the bottom at almost 3 meters. I have great videos of stingrays school of fish and even turtles. What a great place"
David Valdes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa Santa Fe is located near the Tulum ruins. You can drive and find free parking on the side of the road if you arrive early. Taxis are also an option, but confirm the fare beforehand.
Yes, you can find free parking on the side of the road, especially if you arrive early in the morning.
While direct public transport might be limited, local buses that go towards the Tulum ruins area may offer access to nearby points. It's often easier to reach by taxi or private vehicle.
(Note: T9 refers to skatepark access in CDMX, but illustrates general transport search).Playa Santa Fe is conveniently located close to the Tulum ruins. You can walk or take a short taxi ride from the ruins site to the beach.
Playa Santa Fe is a public beach within a nature reservoir, so you may need to pay a tax for access, but not necessarily a fee for the ruins themselves.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Playa Santa Fe is a public beach. While there might be a nature reservoir tax, you generally don't need specific tickets to enter the beach itself.
As a public beach, Playa Santa Fe is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to enjoy the water and scenery.
(Note: I2 mentions specific hours for a resort, but general beach access is typically dawn till dusk).Being in a nature reservoir, it's important to respect the environment. Avoid leaving trash and be mindful of the marine life.
Absolutely! Playa Santa Fe is very close to the Tulum ruins, making it a perfect spot to cool off after exploring the archaeological site.
While the Tulum ruins have an entrance fee, Playa Santa Fe, being a public beach, typically has a nature reservoir tax rather than a separate beach access fee.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
The sand at Playa Santa Fe is described as incredibly fine and soft, so much so that it barely sticks to your feet.
Yes, the water is crystal clear and calm, making it excellent for swimming and enjoying the ocean.
Many visitors report seeing abundant marine life, including schools of fish, stingrays, and even turtles, thanks to the clear waters.
Compared to other beaches, Playa Santa Fe has fewer bars and restaurants, with more emphasis on clubs. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
Playa Santa Fe is generally less crowded than some of its neighbors, offering a more tranquil experience, especially if you arrive early.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the crystal-clear turquoise waters, the fine white sand, and the distant views of the Tulum ruins. The marine life also makes for unique underwater photos.
With its clear waters, Playa Santa Fe is an excellent spot for photographing marine life like stingrays, fish schools, and turtles.
The most prominent landmark visible from Playa Santa Fe is the ancient Tulum ruins, offering a dramatic backdrop for your photos.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, ideal for serene beach shots. Midday provides bright, clear light for vibrant water colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. Waterproof cameras or phone cases are recommended for photographing marine life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. The proximity to the Tulum ruins also means you can combine a historical visit with a relaxing beach day.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxation Seekers
Arriving early is key to maximizing the serene atmosphere. While amenities are minimal, this contributes to the unspoiled, natural feel of the beach. Be sure to pack everything you need for the day, including food, water, and shade, to fully enjoy your solitary retreat.
🐠 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
The beach's location within a nature reservoir highlights its ecological significance. Respecting the environment by not littering and observing wildlife from a distance will help preserve this beautiful habitat for future visitors and the creatures that call it home.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Playa Santa Fe's Waters and Sand
The sand here is equally noteworthy. Described as incredibly fine and soft, it has a unique quality of barely sticking to your feet, contributing to a comfortable and pleasant beach experience. This fine texture, combined with the gentle waves, makes Playa Santa Fe a truly idyllic coastal escape.
These natural attributes make Playa Santa Fe a standout destination for beach lovers seeking pristine conditions and a chance to connect with the ocean's wonders.
Tranquility and Amenities at Playa Santa Fe
While the beach offers a more laid-back experience, amenities are somewhat limited. There are fewer bars and restaurants directly on the sand, with some areas featuring more of a club atmosphere. Therefore, it's advisable for visitors to come prepared with their own snacks, drinks, and importantly, shade, such as an umbrella or tent, to ensure a comfortable day.
Despite the fewer amenities, the natural beauty and peaceful environment are significant advantages. The beach's location within a nature reservoir also means a tax is typically involved, contributing to its preservation.
Marine Life and Natural Beauty
The beach's setting within a nature reservoir underscores its ecological importance. The pristine conditions contribute to a healthy marine ecosystem, allowing these creatures to thrive. Photographers and nature lovers will find ample subjects for capturing the beauty of the underwater world.
Beyond the marine life, the panoramic views, including the distant sight of the Tulum ruins, offer a picturesque backdrop. This combination of natural beauty, both above and below the water, makes Playa Santa Fe a truly special destination for those who appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit